Native & adapted
Prostrate myoporum
Myoporum parvifoliumAlso known as Creeping myoporum · Myoporum
A very low Australian groundcover that makes a dense green carpet across hot banks, broad beds, and difficult slopes.
Right plant, right place
Will Prostrate myoporum grow at your Arizona property?
Use where a broad, fast carpet is genuinely wanted. Keep it away from small planting pockets, paths, and slower perennials it could overrun. Leaves and fruit should not be eaten.
Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b, Desert outskirts · USDA 8b–9b.
Light
Sun exposure
Full sun to light shade. It handles reflected heat once established, but its spread is looser in deep shade.
Water
Irrigation
Low after establishment. Deep, separated irrigation is safer than constantly wet soil; improve drainage where clay stays saturated.
Planting & stewardship
How to help Prostrate myoporum thrive
- 1
Space plants for their mature spread instead of packing them tightly for instant coverage.
- 2
Water deeply through the first warm season, then lengthen the interval between irrigations.
- 3
Shear or edge selectively after growth flushes; avoid creating a thick woody shell with constant clipping.
- 4
Do not place where pets, livestock, or children may be tempted to ingest plant parts.